If Frank Nazar Keeps It Up, He’ll Likely Be In Chicago Next Fall

Frank Nazar is a prospect Chicago Blackhawks fans have been watching intently since being drafted 13th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft. Moving on from Kirby Dach and shipping him for a draft pick was the second big swing new general manager Kyle Davidson took in that draft.

So far, it’s showing to be just as right as the choice to deal Alex DeBrincat to Ottawa for the seventh overall pick to take Kevin Korchinski. That was Davidson’s first big swing.

Korchinski is in Chicago and is part of the young core with Connor Bedard. There will be others soon–since it’s a new year, here’s a new prediction.

Expect Nazar to be in the Blackhawks’ opening night lineup.

Nazar Lighting it Up At Michigan and Internationally

He has eight assists in the World Junior Championships and has somehow factored into each of the games. But it doesn’t just stop there–he’s been a point-per-game pace at Michigan following a season where injury claimed most of his freshman season.

The goal was to get healthy and stay healthy. Check and check. Now, it’s keeping up the pace he’s on to show he’s ready for the big club.

Players who made the college jump this year were Logan Cooley and Adam Fantilli–the latter won the Hobey Baker so he may not be the greatest comparison. Cooley had a heck of a year at Minnesota, far past a point-per-game.

One who sticks out is Dylan Larkin, who as a freshman at Michigan, put up 15 goals and 47 points in 35 games. He was also the 15th overall pick and has enjoyed a productive career with the Detroit Red Wings.

A lot of those attributes Larkin has–speed, and high hockey IQ, go right in line with Nazar. (Fellow Blackhawks prospect Oliver Moore compared himself to Larkin at the draft). From the Michigan connection to the similar spot selection in the draft, it’s not a reach to think Nazar can be in Chicago next year.

Nazar opened some eyes at the summer showcase. He’s got more tracking him as the calendar turns. If this keeps up, don’t be surprised to see Frank Nazar in Chicago next October.